a community of faith-filled PVI students and staff collaborating at the intersection of inspiration and information
Year of Jubilee
a Writer’s Block Club
Winter 2025
From an inspiring piece from Chaplain Fr. Jonathan reminding us that we are pilgrims of hope in this Jubilee Year of renewal, forgiveness, and celebration, and an insightful article on chivalry and gentlemanliness from teacher Dr. Rozmajzl, to feature articles on students, teachers, clubs, and diverse topics of student interest, this issue of Crossroads is overflowing with something for everyone. In addition, you’ll find various snapshots of moments captured of members of our PVI community. We hope this issue continues to not only inspire, educate, and inform you, but also encourage you to consider ways that you can get involved and positively influence and celebrate the PVI community, too.
A Year of Jubilee; A Pilgrimage of Hope
In the darkness of Nazi occupied Krakow, Poland, on the cold winter day of February 18, 1941, a twenty-one-year-old Polish man returned from a long day of work in the rock quarries outside the city. Before returning home, the young man went to a local family’s house to pick up dinner and medicine for his father. When he arrived home, he proceeded to his father’s room down at the end of a long dark hallway. On the bed was the lifeless body of his father. His heart was already broken by the death of his Mother in his childhood, by the death of his only brother the year prior, and by the Nazi destruction of the Polish people. Now, the young man ’ s heart was crushed as he knelt down by his father’s bed and wept inconsolably… He would later say of this moment, “I never felt so alone.”
This is an early-life snapshot of the man who would later describe himself as a “Witness to Hope,” a man named Karol Wojiwa, who to history is known as Pope St. John Paul II.
Every twenty five years, the Catholic Church celebrates a “ year of Jubilee” in which we refocus on “the basics” of the Christian Message: the good news, that God is Emmanuel (“God with us”), that Jesus Christ is our Savior, that we have received forgiveness for our sins, transformation into His sons and daughters, and the hope of eternal life. For us as Catholics, 2025 is a jubilee year in which we remember these mercies and are invited to respond with personal conversion and joyful celebration.
“I never felt so alone.”
~ Pope St John Paul II
As we begin this Jubilee Year as a Church with the theme, “Pilgrims of Hope,” I have been personally reflecting on the life of this “Witness to Hope,” St. John Paul II. Certainly, this great saintly leader of the 20th century needs no introduction! In 1995, Pope John Paul II spoke to the United Nations saying, “Men and women must learn to conquer fear. We must learn not to be afraid, we must rediscover a spirit of hope and a spirit of trust.” However, it begs the question, with young Karol leading such a tragic early life, how did this man respond with such hope -- not only with a private, personal hope, but also by encouraging the entire world to “rediscover a spirit of hope?” continued
Father Jonathan Fioramonti
To grasp the nature of our Christian hope, we must return to its origin. In the baptism of an infant, the priest will have a dialog with the parents: After asking the parents the name of their child, the priest will ask the parents: “What do you ask of the Church?” the parents answer: “Faith.” The priest again asks “And what does faith give you?” to which the parents respond: “Eternal life.” At the last supper, in the seventeenth chapter of John’s Gospel, we hear Jesus say: “Now this is eternal life, that they should know you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent, Jesus Christ.” Now we begin to understand the seed of baptismal hope found and nourished in the tragic life of a young Karol Wojiwa. He knew eternal life as a Person, as His savior, as His God, and as Jesus Christ in whom he learned to place his trust, his Hope. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Christian hope is “the theological virtue by which we desire the kingdom of heaven and eternal life as our happiness, placing our trust in Christ’s promises and relying not on our own strength, but on the help of the grace of the Holy Spirit” (CCC 1817).
The Church, as our Mother, has in her wisdom given us this year of Jubilee to remind us that each of us are “pilgrims of Hope.” She reminds us that hope is like a seed to be nourished and a sail to be unfurled as we personally live out the entirety of the Christ message in Christ’s Church, setting our sites on eternal life, the Person of Jesus Christ. She encourages us to desire his Kingdom, to trust in His promises, and to rely not on our strength, but His.
How many in our world, indeed in our own parishes, and our beloved PVI school community, live lives of quiet desperation? How many of us have little corners of our soul in which we find a part of ourselves weary, lonely, trapped in unforgiveness, resentment, and bitterness, oppressed by personal failure, despairing of the past, fearful of the future, perhaps denying our deepest needs, or simply feeling broken in heart and spirit?
How many in our world, indeed in our own parishes, and our beloved PVI School community, live lives of quiet desperation?
n St. Paul’s letter to the Romans, we hear him give this ncouragement:
We even boast of our afflictions, knowing that affliction roduces endurance, and endurance, proven character, nd proven character, hope, and hope does not isappoint, because the love of God has been poured out nto our hearts through the Holy Spirit,” Romans 5:5.
Tragic-stricken young Karol Wojiwa discovered in his deep sorrow and pain this “hope that does not disappoint.” As we begin this year of Jubilee, I invite each of us to ask ourselves: Do I desire God’s Kingdom above all else? Do I know and trust God’s Promises found in sacred scripture? Do I rely on my own strength or the strength of Jesus Christ? In reflecting on these questions and exercising our Christian life, we come to know eternal life, Jesus Christ, and become even in the midst of our own affliction, “Witnesses to Hope,” like St. John Paul II.
I encourage you to listen to Bishop Burbidge’s homily as he opened this year of Jubilee in the Arlington Diocese, and to pilgrimage to the holy sites in the Arlington Diocese and the universal church to receive the special Jubilee indulgences.
Please know of my prayers. May God bless you and keep you as Witnesses to Hope.
Do I rely on my own strength or the strength of Jesus Christ?
Column: I’m Puzzled (and Thrilled to be!)
by: Tyler Sperow
'28
In the last issue of Crossroads, I shared some interesting information about the Rubik’s Cube; this issue I thought I would share some fun facts about Wordle! The phenomenon of Wordle started as a simple 5-letter word puzzle in June 2021 that was played online Software engineer Josh Wardle initially invented the word-guessing game for the sole enjoyment of his friends and family members; by October, however, the game named after a play on Wardle’s last name was launched publicly online to a simple website with less than 100 player-visitors in the first few weeks. By early January 2022, that number catapulted to 300,000 dedicated Wordle players on any given day. By the end of January and just 90 days after it was first created, millions were playing and Josh Wardle sold his creation to The New York Times for a dollar amount in the low seven-figures. Here are some other fun facts about this puzzle phenomenon:
“Cigar” was the puzzle’s very first answer.
The puzzle was never designed to make money.
It’s a free game with no ads.
It chooses from a database of 2,315 words.
It has a database of 12,972 allowed guesses.
The game will never have the same answer twice.
Because of the amount of words from which to choose and the fact that the game doesn’t choose the same word twice, the game should last for about six years, ending in mid-2027!
No one knows what word is going to be chosen next because it’s randomly picked by a computer Wardle tested different word lengths and number of tries, and figured out that a 5-letter word in six tries was the best design, making the puzzle both enjoyable and challenging. Easy, but still makes you feel like you accomplished something!
As a spoiler-free way of sharing Wordle, a Twitter user by the name of Elizabeth S. came up with the emoji grid that everyone sees and shares today.
It is scientifically proven that “SALET” is the best starting word for Wordle! There's a hard mode! It’s the same Wordle you play every day, except with added difficulty. The letters still light up yellow for a correct letter, and green for a correct letter in the correct place, but you must use previous correct guesses in all subsequent guess. In hard mode, you always have to go with the clues from the previous word. To play this version, simply navigate to the “Settings” menu (the cog at the top right of your screen), and choose the “Hard Mode” option. When you click it, the color will change, affirming that you have launched the puzzle in hard mode.
The Soul Surfer: Bethany Hamilton
by: Anna Owen '28
Bethany Hamilton is a surfer from Kauai, Hawaii. She grew up surfing on that island with her four older brothers By the age of eight, she was surfing competitively Bethany's mom began to homeschool her in sixth grade so that she could spend even more time surfing Her devotion to surfing led to many sponsorships
On Halloween in 2003, however, her regular routine of surfing the sea beneath the sunny skies was about to change While riding the waves with her friend Alana and Alana's dad, Bethany was attacked by a shark Her arm had been bitten off by the shark and she was immediately rushed to the hospital. It was hard for her to completely wrap her mind around the concept that her arm was gone that quickly with no warning. Despite this new reality, however, she never lost help because she felt that her talent for surfing was a gift from God. She wanted to surf again She truly believed that she could do it Noticing that it was physically challenging for her to paddle her board past the whitewater, Bethany’s dad made her a handle for her surf board to help her hold on with her one arm continued
Bethany got back to a routine of surfing pretty quickly and was competing again by January 2004, just about 10 weeks after the shark attack Because of her amputation, her life on dry land also changed At first, it was hard to do many things, but she found her own unique way to overcome the challenges. But her continuing to do these things even though it was hard, is what drew people to her. She didn't have time to feel sorry for herself; she was too b thankful that she had survived the attack. In 2004, she was chosen for the Tee Awards due to her bravery and determination to keep trying even though it was har
The
Soul Surfer: Bethany Hamilton continued
ove through her struggles and past her d oved Any time that things got difficult, she would tur n 2005, Bethany went to Thailand to help after the tsuna itnessed the tsunami were still afraid of the water; they were terrif near it, but Bethany helped them get past that. She understood that what hap was scary and traumatizing because she had also gone through something that had also been traumatizing, but she assured them they couldn’t let that stop them from enjoying the ocean one day again
Bethany wants to show people that whatever happens to you, happens for a reason; you just need to move with it. We shouldn't spend our lives hiding from things just because we believe that we can't do something because of our disabilities or we just believe that we cannot do it. We should do things not because they are easy, but because they are possible
Bethany Hamilton got married to Adam Dirks in 2013 and lives on the Hawaiian island of Kauai with her husband and their four children. She continues to surf with her family.
Life is just one big adventure. We can't just stay on the trail paved by someone else; we need to make our own path
"We don't grow when things are easy. We grow when we face challenges. We're all not perfect. We all have something we think is wrong with us, but all it takes is a little love."
Bethany Hamilton
Gripping Opponents, Gripping Destiny: The Ongoing Wrestling Journey of Cash Colbert
by: Sian Chen '27
From a six-year-old boy looking up at his father’s national wrestling trophy to a high school student holding his own national wrestling accolade, PVI’s junior Cash Colbert continues to stay committed, enthusiastic, and humble on his journey.
The Starting Point: Family Influence and Support
Cash’s father, a runner-up in the National Prep Wrestling Championships (NPWC) our country’s premiere independent school wrestling tournament since 1935 for wrestlers from National Prep Wrestling member schools, inspired six-year-old Cash to follow in his dad’s footsteps and step onto a wrestling mat, too. “At first, it was just for fun, but over time, I realized it was what I really wanted,” shared Cash in a recent interview. As a child, Cash and his brother often looked up at the NPWC trophy displayed in their home’s glass cabinet Back then, that shining gold symbol of discipline and success, combined with his father’s encouragement, planted a seed of passion for wrestling in the young boys’ hearts From those early days, a strong goal took root: to win a national championship or even surpass their father. This goal became Cash’s driving force throughout twelve years of wrestling, with his supportive family always by his side.
For Cash, family is both motivation and support. His father was his first coach, and his brother and younger sibling were his first training partners. Through endless backyard practice, his skills improved, and the already-tight family bond grew even stronger. From being taken down over and over again on the mat to finally holding his own and eventually gaining the upper hand, Cash recalls, “Those times taught me how to face challenges not just in wrestling, but in life.” continued
Gunner Colbert, Cash Colbert, Chris Colbert (father), Brady Colbert (freshman at West Point), Cinnamon Colbert (mother), and Nixon Colbert. Photo taken at Army West Point.
Gripping Opponents, Gripping Destiny:
The Ongoing Wrestling Journey of Cash Colbert continued
The Chosen Path: PVI Team Influence and Support
Choosing St. Paul VI Catholic High School wasn’t by chance. After considering several schools, Cash was drawn to PVI’s atmosphere. “This place not only taught me how to be a better wrestler, but also a better person. ” Talking about his school’s wrestling team, his face lights up “Since my freshman year, I noticed how close the upperclassmen were They supported each other and worked hard together That team spirit had a big impact on me. ” Now, three years later, he has gone from being a rookie to becoming the team captain. As a leader, he carries on the team’s values: respect, hard work, and passion. He trains hard and wrestles with teammates of different weight classes taking on the speed of lightweight wrestlers and the strength of heavier ones. This helps everyone improve in different ways and makes every practice a challenge. When talking about his teammates, he mentions a few names: “My brother Brady, Gunner, and my friend Niko they are my main training partners. They are lighter than me, but they’re much faster than me. Wrestling with them helps me improve my speed and reactions, and they get used to different weights too. They also competed in this tournament [Beast of the East Wrestling], and having them and my coach by my side meant everything to me ”
continued
“Just enjoy the sport. Work hard, but don’t focus too much on winning or losing. In middle and high school, the journey is more important than the results.”
~ Cash Colbert
PVI’s Wrestling team started Christmas break with the Beast of the East Tournament at the University of Delaware and the Pat Dulany Invitational at Langley High School in McLean, Virginia. At the invitational, the team placed 2nd, including 10 place winners. Junior Cash Colbert became the first wrestler in PVI history to win the highly-sought-after Beast of the East championship. Cash beat three nationally-ranked wrestlers and is ranked #12 in the country!
The junior 215-pounder Cash Colbert has, of this writing, a current record of 54-0. The Army commit has won championships at five tournaments so far this season, including the NOVA Classic and Beast of the East. Cash is currently ranked #12 in the country and carries a 4.03 GPA.
“Your biggest opponent is yourself. Whether you can give it your all and try new moves depends on your mindset.”
~ Cash Colbert
photo courtesy of: Ms Fassinger
Gripping Opponents, Gripping Destiny: The Ongoing Wrestling Journey of Cash Colbert
Reaching Higher: Skills and Strategies
When it comes to wrestling techniques, Cash is great at using the “heavy hands” strategy. “It means constantly pulling on the opponent’s neck to wear them down. By the third period, they’re usually too tired to keep up, ” he says with a smile. But he believes success is not just about having good technique or strength it’s also about mental preparation. “Your biggest opponent is yourself. Whether you can give it your all and try new moves depends on your mindset.” Many athletes do well in practice but struggle in competition due to nerves. Trusting your training and your coach, and giving it your best during matches, are key to success. When asked for advice for younger wrestlers, he shares, “Really, just enjoy the sport. Work hard, but don’t focus too much on winning or losing In middle and high school, the journey is more important than the results.”
Reaching the Top: Bigger Dreams
In October 2024, Cash achieved one of his childhood dreams getting accepted into West Point and winning the Best of the West championship His acceptance and trophy are proof of his wrestling skills, but they also recognize his academic achievements and overall growth. As team captain, he also led PVI to secure eight spots in the competition. As he puts it “Enjoy the sport; enjoy the journey. This milestone is not only a reward for his twelve years of hard work but also opens new opportunities for him and his teammates. Through twelve years of wrestling, Cash Colbert has writt his own story with sweat and dedication. From a young bo to a national champion, his love for wrestling has never faded. The support of his family, the trust of his team, and his personal effort have all contributed to his success. Now, standing at a new starting point, he is ready for even bigger challenges.
Cash playing lacrosse last spring for PVI
“The longer I have been diving, the more success I have at meets. Because I am not scared to try a new dive for the first time, I have had a lot of success in just learning more and challenging myself.”
Take the Leap: Join the PVI Swim & Dive Team
by: Annabelle Bailey '27
The PVI Swim & Dive Team has had great success over the years So far this season, PVI set five NOVA Catholic meet records, one new PVI school record, and diver Allie Reback has come in first in all her meets this season. I have been a swimmer on the PVI Swim & Dive team since my freshman year. It has been such an amazing and rewarding experience. Both the swimmers and the divers have accomplished so much. The diving program at PVI is incredible, and there has been much success born from it. Unfortunately, three out of the four divers on the team are seniors graduating this year. This leaves just one diver returning next year.
One of our most successful divers, Allie Reback, says she was initially inspired to join the PVI dive team because her older sister was on it for their summer pool’s team. Allie has found her immense success through constant learning and practice Through this success, Allie has been on the state's team three times, won NOVA Catholics twice, and placed 7th at states her sophomore year. Allie is committed to Fairfield University for diving.
“I always wanted to do a sport in college, I just didn’t know which one it would be, but once I found diving in high school, I knew it was the sport for me. ” Allie’s advice to divers is to not be afraid to join the PVI dive team, even if you have no experience at all, and as long as you aren’t afraid to learn, you’ll pick it up quickly.
Another diver from the PVI Dive team, Kelsa Boodlal, joined during her junior year, but has quickly made such a big impact in such a short period of time. Kelsa joined the dive team because she used to do gymnastics, and fellow diver Allie Reback told her that it was similar to diving and suggested she try it out Kelsa shared that when she first joined the team, she was definitely nervous because it was new to her but eventually she found it really fun and rewarding.
Sophomore Hayden Hill als Hayden has been doing gym her life, and was disappoint there was no gymnastics tea school of choice. Fortunatel diving was the sport that wa and easiest for gymnasts to incorporating her gymnasti was pretty easy. Her love fo since she first started diving first to learn the new skills practice and learning, I fina
Of course, to teach and mak incredible as they are, there Smolinske. Coach Joe has i about five years now and he a great sport not only for an or tumbling experience, but considers themselves “adve “fearless!”
The coach and the four unb tremendously helped our Sw winning. Unfortunately, All are seniors, which means th for the PVI team. That leave diver for the 2025-2026 sea potentially the 2026-2027 s highly encourage anyone in diving. If you ’ re a gymnast diving is an amazing oppor participate in a sport that w those same skills while bein PVI team. Even if you ’ re no dancer, diving is an incredi meet new people, make new sport, and help to continue victory!
For more information about joining PVI’s Swim and Dive Team, contact Coach Joe at jsmolinske@paulvi.net.
Learn the Signs
An Interview with Mrs. Kurtz: PVI’s America Tea
by: Ava Martin
'28
rican Sign Language ASL) is an organized visual language that is expressed by using both manual and nonmanual features. Mrs. Kurtz has been a part of the PVI community for four years, using her American Sign Language (ASL) talents to teach people how to communicate with the deaf. She has had many experiences and has met many well-known and inspirational people throughout the course of her ASL learning journey. In this interview, Mrs. Kurtz will reveal the beginning of her career and the interesting events that followed.
Serendipity: How a College Course, a Colleague, and a Community Led
to the Beginning of an Amazing Career
Every story has a beginning. Mrs. Kurtz’s story started in college at The University of Kansas in the Speech-LanguageHearing Program where she decided to take an ASL class; the course’s instructor was a sign language interpreter. Also, coincidentally, she lived near The Kansas School for the Deaf — a K-12 school, so there was a large deaf population in the community.
At the same time, she was working at a local nursing home where they hired a deaf gentleman, named Kevin, in her department. Mrs. Kurtz really clicked with him. “Kevin and I would spend our breaks signing with each other, which really helped improve my signing,” she said. As time went on, her natural signing skills were noticed by others at work as well, and even though she wasn’t formally qualified, “When we had staff meetings they should have hired an interpreter, but instead they relied on me!”
Inspired by Kevin and her ASL college teacher, Mrs. Kurtz decided to apply to an Interpreter Training Program at a nearby community college.
Interpreting for Presidents, Musicians, and Scientists
As an ASL professional interpreter for over 25 years and a nationally-certified interpreter for over 23 years, her ASL expertise has enabled her to experience and contribute to diverse events. “ASL has allowed me to have so many opportunities. I have interpreted for Heads of State, Presidents, concerts — I have been on stage with some amazing artists and have met many of my idols — plays, births, and so much more. I say I am a jack of all trades but a master of none because I have had the opportunity to interpret in so many fields. From scientists creating vaccines to rocket scientists and teachers, I've done everything but legal interpreting!” She has had the opportunity to meet so many people and learn so many things. Many of her clients that she has interpreted for lead such amazing lives. “I danced with actor John Stamos, and was also able to meet my childhood idol, Lynda Carter (the original Wonder Woman) during one of the most difficult periods of our country's history. I am very fortunate to have the job that I have; it changes daily and never gets boring,” she said.
Once she became an interpreter, Mrs. Kurtz moved back to the DC metro area and became inspired by the people she worked with who were pivotal during the period of the Deaf President Now protest at Gallaudet University in DC. In March 1988, the 124-year-old Gallaudet University experienced a pivotal event that led to the appointment of the university’s first deaf president. “Students, faculty, and staff were protesting the appointment of another hearing president. The interpreters who were there were amazing, awe-inspiring, and essential to providing the communication between the deaf and hearing communities. The protest drew national attention. The first deaf president, Dr. I King Jordan, was appointed. This led to ADA which created many changes; for example, legislation requiring closed captioning. It created the legislation to establish the national relay system and so much more” shared Mrs. Kurtz. She has learned a lot from the interpreters who were a part of the protest. “These amazing interpreters established the first private interpreting agency, Sign Language Associates (SLA). They were the pioneers for interpreting in this area. I have learned so much from them and will always be inspired by what they have done for the interpreting profession!”
Being an ASL professional interpreter has a positive impact on the people in the deaf community. An ASL professional such as Mrs. Kurtz has helped many people while using her ASL skills. “I am providing equal access to information in their first language (English for the hearing and ASL for the deaf). In 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed which prohibits discrimination based on your disability, but it also provides for reasonable accommodations. One of which is equal access. I am there to provide equal access to information. That means not only for someone who is deaf, but also providing the English interpretation of ASL to the hearing” she said.
Afterthoughts and Reflections
During this interview, I asked Mrs. Kurtz a series of questions and she gave such amazing and well-thought-out answers. It is clear to me that Mrs. Kurtz loves what she does and is very grateful for the experiences she has gone through. She really cares and appreciates the people she has met along the way on her ASL interpreter journey. She is very passionate about what she does for a living and will keep on doing what she loves.
At the end of the series of questions Mrs. Kurtz shared: “I guess the point is, I love my job, even during the most difficult assignments I still get up every day loving what I do and look forward to the next adventure. I could talk about what I do all day.”
Mrs.Alfaro EEXCLUSIVE XCLUSIVE
by: Charlie Thom '25
The Return of Catholic Culture: BY ROY WULF '26
The Meaning of “Catholic”
What does the name the Catholic Church actually mean? The word “Catholic” comes from two Greek roots: kata (“concerning”) and holos (“the whole”) Catholic thus means “according to the totality” or “in keeping with the whole ” In Latin, this expression is universum (“combined into one” / “combined in the whole”) As for “Church,” this is a translation of the Greek word ekklesia, meaning “assembly,” which refers to the community of Christian people Therefore, “the Catholic Church” might be said to reference “the Universal Community” or “the One Community” of Christians
The universality of the Church comes from the founding Christianity. In John 17:20-23, Jesus prays, “I pray not only for them, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, so that they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that they also may be in us, that the world may believe that you sent me. And I have given them the glory you gave me, so that they may be one, as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may be brought to perfection as one, that the world may know that you sent me, and that you loved them even as you loved me ” As we see, Jesus asks for complete unity among His followers In spite of this, we sadly observe a great many divisions in Christianity today
In Acts 5:11 and 15:22, St Luke uses the phrase holen ten ekklesian (“the whole church ”) The earliest Christians were united as one Church founded
by Christ and led by St Peter, who made decisions with the other apostles from Jerusalem. The first recorded instance of using the word Catholic to describe the Church was by St Ignatius, the third Bishop of Antioch, who was ordained by St Peter himself In AD 107, Ignatius wrote, ”Wherever the bishop appears, let the people be there; just as wherever Jesus Christ is, there is the Catholic Church” (St Ignatius, Letter to the Smyrneans 8:2). Interestingly, it was also in Antioch that the word Christian was first used to describe followers of Christ, as mentioned in Acts 11:26
Descriptions of worship from these early times reinforce the idea that the Catholic Church today is the continuation of the Catholic Church that St Ignatius wrote about For example, in AD 165, St Justin Martyr described worship He wrote that on Sunday, Christians gather together and “the memoirs of the apostles or the writings of the prophets are read ” The celebrant then “verbally instructs and exhorts
to the imitation of these good things ” and then “ all rise together and pray ” After this, “bread and wine and water are brought” and the celebrant “offers prayers and thanksgiving ” Justin Martyr explains that “this food is called among us Eucharistia of which no one is allowed to partake but the man who believes that the things which we teach are true, and who has been washed with the washing that is for the remission of sins, and unto regeneration, and who is so living as Christ has enjoined For not as common bread and common drink do we receive these; but in like manner as Jesus Christ our Savior, having been made flesh by the Word of God, had both flesh and blood for our salvation, so likewise have we been taught that the food which is blessed by the prayer of His word, and from which our blood and flesh by transmutation are nourished, is the flesh and blood of that Jesus who was made flesh” (Justin Martyr, First Apology, 66-67)
The Nicene Creed, developed between AD 325 and AD 381, describes the Church as “One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic ” For a church to describe itself as “catholic” (or universal) is obviously different from associating itself with a particular nation state or geographical region in the way, for example, the Church of England relates itself to England or the Russian Orthodox Church to Russia It is also different from having an association with a particular person, such as how the Lutheran Church associates itself with Martin Luther For this reason, the word “Catholic” in the Nicene Creed might require further explanation for non-Catholic Christians
I myself am a convert to Catholicism from the Episcopal Church The word “Episcopal” means led by bishops In this way, this denomination describes itself as apostolic The Episcopal Church is in the Anglican Communion (along with the Church of England), so when Episcopalians proclaim the Nicene Creed, reproduced in the Book of Common Prayer, the word catholic is not capitalized, indicating that this is not referring to the institutional Catholic Church Rather, the Episcopalian Book of Common Prayer Catechism states, “The Church is catholic because it proclaims the whole Faith to all people, to the end of time ” The claim is that Christianity is in some invisible way one universal church despite visible institutional divisions that exist This view, of course, is not the position of the Catholic Church On the other hand, Martin Luther simply removed the word catholic from the Nicene Creed, so that the Lutheran Church describes itself as “One, Holy, Christian, and Apostolic ”
The unity of the Catholic Church is greatly aided by having a hierarchy of validly
ordained bishops, priests, and deacons who have inherited their clerical offices and their knowledge of the Catholic Faith from an unbroken line of clergy going back to the apostles themselves (i e , apostolic succession), such as how St Ignatius was ordained by St Peter “In like manner,” wrote Ignatius, ”let all reverence the deacons as an appointment of Jesus Christ and the Bishop as Jesus Christ, who is the son of the Father, and the presbyters [ i e , priests ] as the Sanhedrin of God, and assembly of the Apostles Apart from these, there is no Church” (Epistle of St Ignatius to the Trallians, Chapter 3) Catholic bishops, priests, and deacons do not appoint themselves as clergy but inherit their authority from the previous generations of clergy going back to the apostles who were given their authority by Jesus Christ when he founded His Church Because of all of these considerations, today’s Catholic Church identifies Herself as One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic, as described in the Nicene Creed
The title “the Roman Catholic Church” has also become commonplace This was developed by Anglicans to associate the Catholic Church with a particular geographical location: The Holy See in Rome Admittedly, this is not inaccurate, as the Holy See is located in Rome, but the Church has never in Her official documents referred to the whole Church as the Roman Catholic Church In addition, the term can be misleading as there are Churches (i e , communities) within the entire Church besides the Roman Church For example, there is also the Greek Catholic Church (that uses Greek, among other languages), and there is the Syriac Catholic Church (which uses Aramaic, the language Jesus spoke). About 10% of the population of Ukraine belongs
to the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church (part of the Byzantine Rite of Greek Catholicism) The Catholic Church indeed supports many Churches and Rites that are nonetheless all the Catholic Church by being in communion with the Pope, the Bishop of Rome As we know, whenever necessary, the Church elects a new successor to St Peter, the first Pope, and the institution of the Papacy has thus been helpful to unify the Church for the past two millennia
The Catholic Church states She is Catholic because Christ is present as the head and the unifying force As our catechism reminds us, from Christ, the Church receives the fullness of the faith, the sacraments, and the ordained ministry in Apostolic succession Thus, “the Church was, in this fundamental sense, catholic on the day of Pentecost and will always be so until the day of the Parousia [second coming]” (CCC # 830)
It is also interesting to consider that in recent years, the Catholic Church has truly become universal in the sense of being entirely global in its reach. Almost every country has a diocese headed by a bishop As of June 2024, the Catholic Church comprises 3,172 ecclesiastical jurisdictions, including over 652 archdioceses and 2,249 dioceses, as well as other administrative units across the globe Even those places which do not have a diocese still fall under the authority of a bishop. For example, Saudi Arabia has no Catholic churches, but it is governed under the authority of the Apostolic Vicariate of Northern Arabia based in Bahrain It is estimated that 5% to 7% of the population in Saudi Arabia belong to the Catholic Church More than
half of these may be the large number of Filipino guest workers in the country
Catholics should, as all Christians should, work toward greater unity because Jesus explicitly called for this The challenge to unification is that it seems to require one group
or another of Christians to admit to being wrong on a point of doctrine and, in fact, to having been wrong for perhaps centuries However, even if institutional unification eludes us, that does not mean that different branches of Christianity should view one another as opponents Some
differences in belief might be due to misunderstanding. Also, even where there are genuine differences in belief, this should not prevent Christians of all denominations from supporting one another and cooperating in many ways
Virginia Wildlife in the Winter
by: Avery Thom '27
Though ecosystems may seem dead or empty at the moment, just looking out the window shows that wildlife are very much still active. Below are just a few short descriptions of the amazing behaviors and adaptations that animals use to survive the Northern Virginia winters.
Coyotes and foxes actually do not hibernate during the winter. In fact, they may be seen more often as they wander about. Both coyotes and foxes grow thicker fur to combat the severe winter weather, which may cause them to look larger than normal. Due to their bushy winter coats, staying warm is not a problem for either of the predators, but rather finding food is the main concern. Using their incredible hearing and smell, the hunters are able to find the remaining mice, squirrels, and birds, but may have to travel closer to developed areas to do so.
Birds such as Northern Cardinals, Chickadees, and Finches do not migrate, but bear out the winter by fluffing up their feathers, which creates an insulating layer of air around them. They also tuck their feet underneath themselves to stay warm, which is why they appear so chubby. By staying close to food sources such as bird feeders and any other bugs or wild seed they can find and huddling in tree cavities or dense shrubs, the small creatures bear out the winter until spring comes around again.
Unlike any other creature, amphibians such as frogs and salamanders, along with box turtles, bury themselves under layers of dirt to stay warm and go into a hibernation-like state. These holes must be below the frost line, which is around eighteen inches, in order to keep the animals warm enough. Box turtles dig up to two feet and start digging in November. Once spring brings warm weather and the last of the cold nights have ended, they dig themselves up.
A common sight in Northern Virginia, White Tailed Deer, bear out the cold weather by growing a thicker coat and staying near food sources in groups. In the winter, deer rely on eating acorns, buds and twigs of fruit trees, and young tree growth to survive. When temperatures get particularly harsh, they lay down and curl up for sometimes days on end and rely on fat reserves for energy.
Even though nothing may seem alive in winter, there are still many animals that bear out the winter with amazing behaviors and adaptations. Taking a moment to see these creatures in action is a wonderful privilege that everyone can enjoy by simply looking right outside their window.
Exploring Japanese Cuisine: A Culinary Journey
by: Emma Fuller '28
Japan cuisine, otherwise known as 和⻝ (Washoku), is renowned for its unique balance of flavors, seasonal ingredients, and artistic presentation. It is a cuisine profoundly rooted in its culture’s tradition yet continuously evolving and transforming, making it one of the most celebrated culinary styles in the world. From the simplicity of fresh sushi to the comfort of a warm bowl of ramen, Japanese cuisine offers a diverse array of tastes, and textures to suit everyone ' s palate.
The philosophy behind Washoku: Washoku emphasizes harmony in its preparation and consumption. This is reflected in the concept of “ichiju sensei,” meaning “ one soup, three dishes,” which forms the foundation of a traditional Japanese meal. This approach focuses on balance, incorporating a variety of cooking techniques, such as grilling, steaming, simmering, and frying while ensuring a nutritious and satisfying experience. Seasonal ingredients, or 旬(shun), play a central role in highlighting the freshness and flavors of whatever season that time of year calls for.
Iconic Dishes In Japanese Cuisine:
Sushi and sashimi are among Japan’s most famous exports. Sushi combines vinegared rice with toppings such as fresh fish, vegetables, or egg, while sashimi is thinly sliced raw seafood served with soy sauce and wasabi. The quality of the ingredients and the skill of the chef are crucial to these dishes.
Ramen, a noodle soup dish originally imported from China, has become a Japanese staple with regional variations. From the creamy pork broth of tonkotsu ramen in Kyushu to the soy-based shoyu ramen of Tokyo, each bowl reflects the unique flavors of its region.
Exploring Japanese Cuisine: A Culinary Journey
Tempura is a dish of seafood or vegetables coated in a light batter and deep-fried to perfection. It is typically served with a dipping sauce called tentsuyu, made from soy sauce, dashi, and mirin. The key to great tempura is achieving a delicate, crispy texture without being greasy.
Okonomiyaki, also known as “Japanese savory pancakes,” is made from a batter of flour, eggs and shredded cabbage, mixed with ingredients like pork, seafood, or cheese. It’s cooked on a girdle and topped with okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes. Also, should you want it, there are many other topping options.
Modern Influences on Japanese Cuisine:
While traditional dishes remain beloved, Japan’s culinary scene has embraced modern influences. Fusion cuisine, convenience store bento boxes, and trendy cafes offering innovative takes on classic dishes have become increasingly popular.
A Taste of Japan’s Culture:
Japanese cuisine is more than just food; it is a reflection of the country’s history, values, and artistic sensibilities. Whether you ’ re indulging in a lavish kaiseki meal, or savoring sweet food from a bustling market, Japanese food invites you to appreciate the harmony of flavor, presentation, and culture.
Building Futures
by: Sylvia Schafer '28
When it comes to bridging gaps in education and empowering underprivileged communities, the Kuma Foundation stands out as a beacon of hope Founded in 2018 by Ray Kimble, the nonprofit has made significant strides in providing STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) education to children who otherwise lack access From its humble beginnings to its expanding global impact, the foundation’s journey is a testament to the power of vision and persistence
Why STEAM Education?
The focus on STEAM education was a natural fit, blending Ray’s professional experience in cybersecurity and data privacy with a desire to equip students for high-paying, in-demand careers “These fields break through the cycle of poverty, ” he noted By introducing children to science and technology earlier in their education, the Kuma Foundation aims to show them that such careers are within their reach
Inspiration Born from a Desire to Give Back
For Ray, the decision to start the Kuma Foundation stemmed from a desire to make a difference “I had a for-profit company for about eight years and at that point, we all kind of wanted to have more of an impact with people,” Ray shared. With millions of children in the United States lacking access to STEAM education, the foundation was created to meet this critical need “We attempted to, and were successful in, creating a foundation that would provide that kind of learning experience to kids wherever they were whether that be virtually, through field trips, or even in standalone labs ”
Adapting in the Face of Challenges
Like any nonprofit, the Kuma Foundation has faced its fair share of challenges. The onset of COVID-19 was a significant hurdle, arriving just as the foundation was set to launch classroom programs. “Two days after we were supposed to land in schools in Prince William County, COVID hit ” The foundation quickly pivoted, providing food, groceries, and support for families struggling during the pandemic When schools reopened, the organization adopted a more flexible approach, offering programs in schools, community centers, and online Another persistent challenge has been fundraising. “Securing grants and donations is tough,” Ray admitted. Despite this, the foundation has managed to establish several fully equipped computer labs, including one in Pune, India, and another in Georgetown South, Virginia, both of which are already making a significant impact.
Success Stories That Inspire
The Kuma Labs are among the foundation’s proudest achievements. In Pune, the foundation outfitted classrooms in an existing school with desks, chairs, 25 computers, and a full-time teacher, which now serves students from 3rd to 10th grade These children, who previously wouldn’t have encountered STEAM education until much later, are now introduced to it seven years earlier. “Seeing kids in India access the internet for the first time on these computers is a mind-blowing experience. ” Similarly, the Georgetown South lab provides afterschool support, helping children with homework and fostering their interests in STEAM fields.
What Students Take Away
Beyond the skills and knowledge, Ray hopes the foundation will open students’ eyes to new possibilities “Many kids don’t think that these types of careers or this kind of education is within reach.” By introducing them to these fields, the foundation aims to spark curiosity and show students how to pursue careers as engineers, scientists, or artists.
Looking Ahead
The future of the Kuma Foundation is bright. With plans to launch one lab every year, the goal is to establish five to ten selfsufficient labs globally within the next decade. “Our mission is simple: to educate and support as many kids and communities as possible and have more of a population that we ’ ve impacted ”
Getting Involved
Community involvement is crucial to the foundation’s success Partnerships with companies like Microsoft and Amazon have been instrumental, and there are numerous ways for individuals to contribute “Volunteers can mentor kids, help in labs, or even share insights about different career paths.” Donations and spreading awareness through social media are also impactful ways to support the cause
Words of Advice for Aspiring Changemakers
For those considering starting their own nonprofit, Ray emphasized passion as the key ingredient. “Find a cause that you ’ re energized to wake up for every day,” he advised. From there, it ’ s about taking small, consistent steps “Don’t let hurdles stop you. Just take the next step and keep moving forward ”
The Kuma Foundation’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and hope. By opening doors to STEAM education, it is not only shaping futures but also transforming entire communities.
Robotics at PVI
by: Mr. Tom Burkat
On January 18, PVI's Robotics team (FTC #26079) traveled to Battlefield High School for their second qualifying event in the Chesapeake Region. After a strong showing at the DC International School in November, the VI Bots stepped up to the challenge against a seasoned field of 35 other teams from the region. The resulting match record of 1 win and 4 losses doesn't tell the whole story however, as the VI Bots racked up two personal-best alliance scores this year in matches #33 and #40, while posting their highest score ever in a loss to the eventual qualifier champions, the Blu Cru from Rockville, Maryland.
Thanks to reliable design, expert driving, and most of all teamwork, the VI Bots will build on the experiences of their rookie season and have much to look forward to in the coming years.
A special thanks to all our departing seniors, parents, and volunteers, especially Mr. Fromm for his coaching and mentorship, and the Poole family for making this season possible through their generosity.
The PVI Robotics Team is coached by Mr. Burkat who teaches the Introduction to Robotics Design course, as well as PVI’s other engineering courses. Mr. Burkat’s interest in robotics started in college and led him to concentrate in control systems and signal processing as an electrical engineering major. However, prior to teaching at PVI, Mr. Burkat spent most of his career designing software systems that had little to do with robots, so joining the VI Bots has been a wonderful return to his roots.
Well, would you look at that? It’s already two months into the new year! What exactly does it take for a journey or for a new beginning in 2025? Common advice says to set goals, to focus on what you want to achieve, and to work hard to become who you want to be.
I’d like to suggest that we all “enjoy the show.” Time, life, and nature have brought us to a unique situation, in a unique year, in a unique place. Through all of time, through all of the universe, and through all of the possibilities, we ’ ve made it here, and that is something to celebrate and enjoy every day.
Be glad, then. Be good, then. Be great, then. Be faithful, then.
A set of joys, challenges, opportunities, and sadness probably came to all of us in some way last year. I’d expect that again this new year. I’d want to trust in God that it’s all part of the plan…the perfect, wonderful, making-us-into-saints, type of plan. It’s all part of the plan…the redeeming, loving, meant-to strengthen-us type of plan. It’s all part of the plan… the plan that charges us up with bravery and vigor to face all of the intensity that life could bring. It starts and ends with us committing, in some way, to singing a song of praise…the shout that this is the life that God has given us and that we ’ re giving back to Him. Let us be grateful.
To continue to celebrate this new year, we ’ re bringing a selection of inspirational Christian-based songs about journeys and new beginnings. This issue’s selection of songs tells us to start over, to see where we are in life, to stand with God, to focus on the present moment, to be resilient, to keep going, and to be fascinated by the journey of life.
l
Column: Uplifting, Inspiring, and Cool Christian Music
by: Hans Sirotniak ‘24
Hans Sirotniak '24
The 2023-2024 senior editor, communications specialist, and writer with Crossroads, Hans was instrumental not only in helping to launch each issue last year, but also in inspiring many students, staff, and faculty with his regular column on Christian music. Hans graduated from PVI in May 2024 and is now attending William & Mary. He is currently involved in the college’s Student Video Department and WCWM 90.9 FM, the college’s radio station! In addition, he enjoys martial arts training and is active in Faith Formation at St. Bede’s Catholic Church in Williamsburg.
*These songs are copyrighted by their respective owners. I attempt to mention songs in accordance with fair use guidelines for commentary and educational purposes. I am not affiliated with any of the artists mentioned.* All songs featured this month can be easily found on YouTube.
Eli Gable opens up to the wonderful excitement of starting over, leaving behind a shameful past and appreciating a brand new start.
“The Year I’ve Waited For”
JSteph realizes that there’s another part of his life story, a year of blessings and big opportunities, and he hopes for a pathway to an even greater future.
One Common gets up from the chair of indecision by making a commitment to stand with God and take up His company no matter what.
TobyMac and Juan Winans sing their troubles away by keeping their mind and their eyes on God instead of on their pasts.
Grace Graber makes a resolution to focus on living in the moment so that she can rock through life without any regrets.
Jonathan Cyphers gives himself a new name and advertises the hope that lifts him up whenever the world pushes him down.
Mission blows us a second wind by offering some motivation to inspire us to stop letting life’s disappointments weigh us down.
PEABOD delivers a very personal reflection about his whole life journey and asks God to prepare him for the road of growth ahead.
Patrick J. Rozmajzl, PhD
Welcome to Pass In Review As many of you are likely aware, a Pass in Review is a (mostly) military form of inspection whereby a senior officer, official, or dignitary observes the assembled troops as they march past the review stand
At times, this and other forms of inspection are purely ceremonial a cursory formality done as a courtesy to the official, while at the same time recognizing the inestimable value and function of those who await the fleeting, evaluative gaze At other times, inspections can be brutally meticulous and painfully detailed demanding perfection and allowing for no deviation from the standard.
In either case, at its core is the wellfounded belief and understanding that there exist objective norms of what is good, right, required, and/or necessary. The process recognizes a whole that is larger than the individual while contemporaneously recognizing the contributions of the individual a whole that is to be celebrated, guarded, and defended. A whole that is worthy of the best we have to offer.
In my PASS IN REVIEW column, I hope to offer my thoughts and observations on what is good, right, required, and/or necessary To recognize that whole to be celebrated, guarded, and defended That whole that is worthy of our best.
PASS IN REVIEW: Chivalry and the Death of Pretty
“Mom, that dress looks like it was made for you. You look fantastic.”
I don’t recall the occasion (it may have been a wedding reception); however, I will never forget the moment. I was seated at a table when my mother walked by and I made the observation. My 60-some year-old mother devolved into genuine girlish glee. Flattered, yet demure. Embarrassed, yet appreciative. In light of her reaction, for a brief moment, I saw my mother in a new light No longer was she simply a parental authority. Rather, I witnessed some aspect of the youthful woman with whom my father fell in love.
My compliment was genuine. And it won for me a more elevated level of understanding for who this woman was. We were both better for the encounter. Indeed, my mother was pretty.
In December of 2011, however, in a National Catholic Register article entitled “The Death of Pretty,” author Pat Archbold published a lament. “Pretty” was dying. According to Archbold, “(y)oung women today do not seem to aspire to pretty; they prefer to be regarded as hot ”
I cannot imagine using that term as a compliment for my mother. Lovely? Yes. Elegant? Without question. Pretty? Most definitely.
This obvious sense of what is inappropriate in one case demands that we apply the same scrutiny to all other cases. Exactly what are we communicating? What is the message? What values are we celebrating?
I find it edifying to consider Archbold’s assertion that, “Pretty is” something to be “cherished.” Furthermore, that “hotness…is a commodity…a consumable ” Given the two, “pretty inspires men ’ s nobler instincts ”
While we all contribute to and have a role to play in establishing appropriate standards of discourse, in the remainder of this article I want to address the young men.
PASSINREVIEW:
Gentlemen, being male is a matter of birth, being a man is a matter of age, but being a gentleman is a matter of choice. All too often I think we, at some level, associate being a gentleman with being weak or at least with watering down our masculinity. But nothing could be further from the truth. No, gentlemanliness is a choice a choice to be the master of our very nature instead of being mastered by it and doing so because it is a service to others.
Being a gentleman is not just about etiquette or manners. These things describe WHAT we do BECAUSE we are gentlemen. And they ARE important so we will talk about them. But before we talk about WHAT we do we need to explore the “why.” If we understand the “why” the specifics of “what” will make more sense
So, is gentlemanliness about being polite? Sure. In part. Politeness is about being “polished” or “refined.” Is gentlemanliness about being considerate? Yes. Being considerate means thinking outside of ourselves in order to “consider” the wants, needs, and desires of others. Does being a gentleman involve being courteous? Definitely. And I really like this word because its etymology derives from the expected behavior in the king’s court. And this brings me to my favorite word.
Chivalry. I love the medieval concept of chivalry. And being a gentleman is about being chivalrous. The word “chivalry” comes from the French word chevalerie which means “horseman” or “knight.” In its purest form, a knight is a principled, manly protector and defender of all that is good He acknowledges and celebrates the characteristics that make him a man, honing them to maximize his masculinity and reining them in when appropriate, at all times governed by a higher power. He is a noble, valiant, heroic, Christian servant/leader of humanity.
We (indeed, all) are called by God to embrace any situational authority in the most positive, God-centered way in order to serve. Being a gentleman has nothing to do with surrendering that dignity. It has everything to do with God-centered servant leadership — acknowledging your innate dignity and that of those around you.
I think it will help our present discussion of “gentlemanliness” and focus you in the future to append the word “servant” to any position you occupy. Servant father. Servant citizen. Servant son. Servant brother. Servant boyfriend. Servant husband.
So what does a gentleman do?
A gentleman shows appropriate respect and deference to those in authority over him.
He never interrupts, but patiently awaits his turn to speak.
A gentleman looks you in the eye and shakes your hand firmly.
He never retreats from his principles, but prefers polite conversation to confrontation.
The gentleman does not draw undue attention to himself, preferring, rather, to elevate those in his company. He accomplishes this by maintaining a good posture, avoiding being boisterous or loud, chewing with his mouth closed and keeping his elbows off the table.
A gentleman looks for opportunities to demonstrate respect for others and for the valuable institutions to which he belongs and from which he benefits. He does this by standing and removing his hat when indoors, when engaged in prayer, when reciting the pledge of allegiance, singing the national anthem or rendering honors to the flag of the United States as it passes by.
He honors others by ensuring that they are served before himself. He honors the elderly by offering his seat and assisting them when possible.
The gentleman is temperate in his speech and positive in his outlook. He calls evil by its name and is an uncompromising advocate of goodness.
Most importantly, a gentleman honors women at all times. And as any good leader might be expected to do, he inspires the best from the women with whom he interacts. He inspires modesty, chastity, dignity, honesty, piety and frugality. He extolls her virtues, acknowledges her intellect, is gentle with her failings, sensitive to her feelings, and recognizes her value to God and others.
continued
The gentleman serves his girlfriend by holding the door for her. He displays courtesy to all women by offering them his seat. The gentleman celebrates the dignity of all women by standing when they approach a table at which he is seated or as they depart from a table at which all were seated.
When walking down the street in the company of a woman, the gentleman will station himself on the side of the woman that is closest to the street, ensuring her safety. Cognizant of his strength, the gentleman will display self-control at all times never, even under the greatest stress, surrendering to his most base passions
A gentleman will adorn his girlfriend with flowers when taking her to the prom. And he will do so NOT to win her affection. He will do so simply because she is worthy of adornment.
Your actions and your expectations can inspire the best from all others in your life. By holding ourselves to the highest standard and practicing the art of trust, we will become trustworthy. One person at a time we can reestablish a basic philosophy of principled living and ensure the continuity of “pretty.”
Societal pressures notwithstanding, we must never lower our standards. Let nothing justify a retreat from our call to leadership. It just wouldn’t be the chivalrous thing to do.
A gentleman looks for opportunities to demonstrate respect for others and for the valuable institutions to which he belongs and from which he benefits.
2025: New Year, New Me
by: Julia Nieves '28
This year, my New Year’s resolutions are: getting adequate sleep, adopting a better work ethic to improve my grades, and strengthening my volleyball skills.
I decided to make getting adequate sleep as one of my 2025 New Year’s resolutions because my lack of sleep has been impacting my overall well-being. I hope that sleeping eight hours a night will bring me more energy, more focus in school, and improve my physical and mental health. I plan to achieve this resolution by creating a sleep routine and sticking to it. I plan to set a bedtime for 10:30 p.m. each night in order to wake up feeling well-rested in the morning and with enough time to prepare for my day. I will limit my screen time in bed at night, stop taking naps, and also relax with music or meditation before bed to reduce stress.
Another area of my life that I will improve is my approach to my school work. I set a resolution to take steps to improve my grades in order to do well in school and increase my opportunities for college. I believe the steps to accomplish this goal are to pay more attention in school and take detailed notes, use my agenda to write key dates and assignments, start my assignments early to limit procrastination and stress over deadlines, and be prepared for class each day. These changes are doable and will definitely help to improve my work ethic and my overall grades.
Finally, I set a resolution to improve my volleyball skills this year. I set this resolution because volleyball is important to me. I would like to succeed in my sport. Doing well at volleyball will help to limit my stress, is great exercise, and will be good for my college prospects. I intend to go to conditioning and team events, stretch more before and after practices, eat healthier before games, and make volleyball a priority by focusing and limiting outside distractions.
Panther Puzzlers Club
by: Tyler Sperow '28
The Panther Puzzlers Club will soon be hosting a puzzle-based scavenger hunt. Don’t miss your chance to participate and enjoy the fun. You might even win!
Join the Panther Puzzlers Google Classroom for more information. Code: 3mxetor.
Acknowledgments
Writers:
Emma Fuller '28
Ava Martin '28
Anna Owen '28
Sylvia Schafer '28
Tyler Sperow '28
Annabelle Bailey '27
Sian Chen '27
Avery Thom '27
Roy Wulf '26
Charlie Thom '25
Hans Sirotniak '24
Staff Contributors:
Mr. Tom Burkat
Fr. Jonathan Fioramonti
Dr. Patrick J. Rozmajzl
Photographers:
Tyler Sperow '28
Sian Chen '27
Mr. Peter Troy
Moderator:
Ms. Vicque Fassinger
Ms. Moore, PVI’s Kitchen Manager, and her grandson, Henry, at a PVI basketball game.
Get it in writing.
Join The Writer’s Block Club: Contribute your nonfiction pieces to Crossroads; contribute your fiction and poetry to Tales and Verses! club code: ohuqdfw
